Philly Residents Among Most Overstimulated by Spam and Group Chats

New study finds Philadelphia area has highest rates of digital notification fatigue in the country

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A new national study on notification fatigue has ranked Philadelphia and South Jersey residents as among the most digitally interrupted in America. The data shows Philly residents estimate receiving 34.6 notifications per day, the 15th highest in the U.S., with 67% saying they're interrupted at least once an hour by a ping, buzz, or banner. The region also has the highest percentage of people who are very fed up with group chat notifications (65%) and spam messages (75%), as well as the 3rd highest percentage who are very fed up with news alerts (67%).

Why it matters

The constant barrage of digital notifications is taking a mental toll on residents, with about 33% of locals feeling obligated to respond within minutes, ranking 14th nationally. This pressure adds up, especially for millennials juggling work, family, and personal messages across multiple platforms and devices.

The details

The study found that Philadelphia and South Jersey residents are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of digital notifications they receive daily. From group chats to spam messages and news alerts, people in the region are reporting high levels of "notification fatigue" and a desire for more peace and quiet amidst the digital chaos.

  • The new national study on notification fatigue was published on February 19, 2026.

The players

Philadelphia residents

Residents of the Philadelphia metropolitan area, known for being passionate, loud, and opinionated, especially when it comes to local culture and rivalries.

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The takeaway

This study highlights the growing problem of digital overload and notification fatigue, even in vibrant, high-energy cities like Philadelphia. It suggests that even the most outgoing and engaged residents need more opportunities to disconnect and find moments of calm amidst the constant digital stimulation.